Heat Advisory in Effect Today

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Montgomery County today, and the temperature could break 100 degrees this afternoon.

Of course, if you're a warm-blooded creature, you've probably already noticed how hot it is outside, so Montgomery County has issued some tips on how to stay safe and comfy as the mercury rises.

First of all, the county recommends staying indoors as much as possible. Avoid strenuous outdoor labor, or, if you must work outside, try to do it in the early morning or evening, when the weather cools down.

If you don't have air conditioning at home, you can find public air-conditioned facilities like libraries and rec centers here. If you are elderly or disabled and need a free fan, call 311.

If you need to cool off, you can also stop by shopping malls or movie theaters, or you can head up the road to the Montgomery Aquatic Center for a dip in the pool.

But most of all, be sure to keep yourself and your loved ones safe from the effects of the heat. You should know and be able to recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion, which include pale skin, nausea, dizziness, headache and weakness.

In extreme cases, sufferers of heat stroke may experience a weak pulse, rapid breathing and fainting spells. If you suspect you or a member of your family has heat stroke, call 911.

Most importantly, drink lots of water. Proper hydration can help prevent many heat-related illnesses.